Travel on B2

[preetisagar]

I have a B1/B2 visa which is valid for 10 years (till 2018). I travelled to USA in November 2011 for 6 months on B2 visa. Is there a minimum period which is required until I can travel again on B2? If so whats the time?

Also, If now I have to travel on b1, is there a minimum period after which I can return?

[raghvi]

Travel on B2

B1 is for Business purposes and B2 is for pleasure/tourism. When you say you were 6 Months on B2 does it mean you were here as a tourist for 6 Months? Visa is just an entry document, it allows you to reach US border and attempt an entry to US. Your entry and stay in US is decided at the Port of Entry where you would be questioned about the purpose of your trip and if found satisfied, you will given an I-94 which will determine how long are you allowed to stay in US. There is no rule as to the gap between two visits on B1/B2 but you would surely be questioned as to what you did on your previous visit for so long, why you coming again in such a short span of time, and what you plan to do in the current visit etc. It all depends on the officer at the POE, he/she might give you I-94 for 6 Months or might give you I-94 for a week, worst you might be deported back also. All depends on your reason for stay in US. This is my personal opinion, do consult experts too.

[peace999]

There is no period set by law. It all depends on the person's purpose, last duration of stay
and the officer's discretion.

You mentioned that you stayed 6 m onths on a B2 status on your last visit in Nov 11.
Could you be more specific about your visit because a 6 month stay is a long period for pleasure.

*were you visiting relatives, are you working in India,
*what is your next desired duration and purpose( relatives, or simple tourism)?